At the time of writing this article, I have not done any research into laptops for multimedia use, but I have done an article on desktop computers for multimedia use. In that article, I give some helpful tips that will apply to purchasing a laptop as well. You should be able to pick up a decent laptop that will run your multimedia ministry for around $500.00
Video Projectors
The first thing you will need to decide is how you are going to display your multimedia ministry. I have written an article on how to choose between flat-screen monitors and projection systems for stationary churches that will give you a little insight into your choice.
For a portable church, I don’t like the flat screen option because monitors are fragile and there is not a good way to protect them while traveling.
Depending on the size of the room you are meeting in and the shape of the room, you will need 1 or 2 projectors if you go with the projection method of displaying your multimedia ministry.
I have written an article on projectors for small to medium size churches. You will find a lot of helpful tips on how to choose the right projector for your portable church setup.
Flat Screen Monitors
If you do decide on the flat screen option or have figured out how to protect your monitors while in transit, then I have also written an article on how to choose the best flat screen monitor for your church? It should give you some helpful tips on how to select the right monitor for your portable church setup.
One way to save a little money is to use the carts that you move the equipment with as stands for your monitors. Make sure you take into account the distance from the screen to the last row of seats in your meeting place.
Projection Screens
Depending on your setup, you will need at least one projection screen if you are going to use a video projector. They are less than $100.00 on Amazon.
Make sure that you get one large enough to be seen at the back of the room. I have written an article on how to figure out how extensive of a screen to get. You can find that article here. It will give you the ratio to use so that people can see in the back and some tips on how to make smaller screens work in a pinch.
Live Streaming
Live streaming is optional. It is not necessary for a mobile church setup. However, it is a good idea all the same. I have written some extensive articles on live streaming that will help you get all set up to go live on Facebook or YouTube.
If you are a new church plant, I would highly recommend that you start a live streaming ministry. In my first church plant, 50% of my members came from our video ministry being broadcast on cable access. Live streaming gives you the same opportunity.
You can start live streaming with just a cell phone on a tripod, but I recommend as soon as you can to upgrade to an actual live streaming system.
It is not that expensive for the equipment and the increased reach your new mobile church will have far outweighs the cost.
